Ramseyer-Northern Bible Society Collection

Bible
Illustration Throughout the Centuries

Through the centuries, whether Bibles were produced by hand copying or by
high-speed press, illustrations have been added, both to beautify the text
and to add more visual information to the stories. The display includes examples
of a range of technological innovation, from the early illuminated manuscripts,
to wood-block prints, metal engraving, and color lithography.

Examples include the work of the popular 19th century illustrator Gustav
Doré and editions incorporating the art work of the Renaissance masters.
Also included are examples of twentieth century visual interpretations of
the Bible.

In addition to browsing this website, you are invited to view the material
itself in the cases on the second floor of the Library. There, you will
also find a computer kiosk where you can view and listen to the explanation
of the Collection. It is located at the far end of the cases towards the elevators.

Case
One

Long before the invention of printing, the written word was supplemented
by some form of picture. One form was illumination, the decoration of a manuscript
with gold or silver as well as colors. The result was a compound of illustration
and ornament, as seen in the example of a decorative initial reproduced from
the Corbie Psalter (9th century).

Another form of note, consisting entirely of illustration with no words at
all, is seen in the example reproduced here of a custom-made, 14th century
devotional booklet from Germany.

The earliest Bibles for popular use were nearly all illustration. The Biblia
Pauperum (Bible of the Poor), was used to provide religious instruction to
the illiterate masses. Generally, these Bibles were produced by simple wood-block
printing. Some, however, like the Vatican Library facsimile on display here,
were much more ornately done.